Petition to save Whitley Excellence Cluster

A petition has been launched in Whitley in a bid to save almost £500,000 in funding for Whitley Excellence Cluster (WEC).

In total £473,666 is expected to be cut from WEC as part of the £3.9 million savings. More than 300 signatures have been collected from residents and parents of children who benefit from the grant.

The project, launched in 2004, supports parents, children and teachers and 11 schools in South Reading. Whitley ward councillor Rachel Eden said: “We are gathering so much support – people are not just signing our petition but telling their friends and family too.

“We know WEC makes a difference. What we are trying to stop is a shortsighted cut that hits schools in a part of town that needs the extra support.”

Parent Sarah Bothwick posted on the online petition: “I have three school-aged children and have seen how much the schools, community and children have gained from WEC support.”